Early action can help female pectus conditions

16-June-2016

The majority of pectus patients that we see in our clinics are male, but that doesn’t mean women don’t suffer, too.

At LOC, our treatment for pectus carinatum and pectus excavatum uses a non-surgical method that involves wearing a bespoke brace or orthosis, called a ‘Dynamic Chest Compressor’ combined with a programme of daily exercises. Treating women with pectus is more challenging because we have less area in which to apply the brace’s necessary pressure. However, it is still possible to achieve very positive results with the right treatment programme.

Anecdotally, we also know that women tend to be a lot shyer about talking to someone about their pectus condition. This is why we believe that young women like Ellie Jane (watch her video here) are playing such a vital role in raising awareness of the condition.

“The key is to come to a clinic like LOC as early as possible,” says LOC orthotist, Sam Walmsley. “There’s no need to be embarrassed – we manage conditions like pectus every day. And don’t assume that nothing can be done just because it’s trickier to treat or because you’ve left it a long time. Come and talk to us and we’ll do everything we can to help improve your pectus.”